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May is one of the best months to explore Karnataka, a state that boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from lush green coffee plantations and misty hills to historic ruins and serene beaches. There are some astounding places to visit in May in Karnataka, that you can explore for a serene retreat. During May, the weather remains relatively pleasant, especially in the hill stations and coastal areas, making it perfect for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, Karnataka has something to offer for every kind of traveller. Here are 15 must-visit places in Karnataka this May.
15 Places To Visit In Karnataka During May
Here are 15 places to visit in Karnataka during May that promise a serene getaway in this tranquil abode.
1. Coorg
Photo: Demure Storyteller / Unsplash
Coorg is a well-known hill station in Karnataka, often called the “Scotland of India” because of its lush landscapes and rolling hills. This place is perfect for nature lovers who want to escape the heat and enjoy the cool, refreshing weather. Coorg is famous for its sprawling coffee plantations, beautiful waterfalls, and rich wildlife. One of the key attractions in Coorg is Abbey Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. You can also visit Raja’s Seat, a beautiful garden offering panoramic views of the valleys. If you enjoy trekking,
Location: Kodagu District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Abbey Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Coorg
2. Hampi
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka if you’re interested in history and architecture. The ancient city of Hampi is filled with magnificent temples, ruins, and monuments that date back to the Vijayanagara Empire. Some must-visit spots in Hampi include the Vittala Temple Complex, which features intricate stone carvings and the famous stone chariot, and the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hampi’s landscape is also unique, with massive boulders and rocky hills offering great spots for photography and exploration.
Location: Vijayanagara District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Vittala Temple
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction
3. Chikmagalur
Known for its coffee plantations and peaceful surroundings, Chikmagalur is one of the most relaxing places to visit in May in Karnataka. The cool climate in May makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the summer heat. One of the highlights of Chikmagalur is Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka. Trekking enthusiasts will love climbing this peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. If you enjoy wildlife, you can visit the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and explore its rich flora and fauna.
Location: Chikmagalur District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Mullayanagiri
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kadur Junction
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chikmagalur
4. Shivanasamudra Falls
Photo: Guptarohit994 / Wikimedia Commons
Shivanasamudra Falls is one of the most scenic places to visit in May in Karnataka. Located on the banks of the Kaveri River, these stunning twin waterfalls – Gaganachukki and Bharachukki – are a sight to behold. Surrounded by lush green forests, the falls are an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers. The best time to visit Shivanasamudra Falls is during May, when the weather is pleasant, and the waterfalls flow beautifully due to pre-monsoon showers.
Location: Mandya District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Gaganachukki Waterfalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Maddur Railway Station
5. Nagarhole National Park
Photo: Vivek K Kaushik / Unsplash
For wildlife enthusiasts, Nagarhole National Park is one of the top places to visit in May in Karnataka. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of birds. A safari through the dense forests of Nagarhole gives you the chance to experience Karnataka’s rich biodiversity up close. May is an ideal time to visit the park as the weather remains dry, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture the wildlife in action.
Location: Kodagu and Mysore Districts, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Wildlife Safari
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction
Suggested Read: Unmissable Things To Do In Nagarhole For A Perfect Wildlife Exploration Getaway
6. Kemmangundi
Photo: Vijay Sawant / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature, Kemmangundi is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka. This hill station, in the Chikmagalur district, offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and lush green landscapes. The pleasant weather in May makes Kemmangundi perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking and nature walks. The highlight of Kemmangundi is Hebbe Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests. You can also explore the well-maintained gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the hills.
Location: Chikmagalur District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Hebbe Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tarikere Railway Station
7. Gokarna
For those seeking a beach holiday, Gokarna is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka. Known for its peaceful and pristine beaches, Gokarna offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxation. The most popular beaches in Gokarna are Om Beach and Kudle Beach. You can enjoy water sports, yoga by the beach, or simply relax and watch the stunning sunsets. Gokarna is also a spiritual hub with the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple, attracting pilgrims from across the country. The pleasant weather in May makes Gokarna a great place for beach activities and exploration.
Location: Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Om Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gokarna
8. Sakleshpur
Sakleshpur is a small, scenic hill station known for its lush green coffee plantations and rolling hills. It is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka if you are looking for a quiet escape from nature. A popular attraction in Sakleshpur is the Manjarabad Fort, a star-shaped fort offering stunning views of the Western Ghats. You can also go trekking through the scenic trails or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the coffee estates. Sakleshpur’s cool climate in May makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Location: Hassan District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Manjarabad Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Sakleshpur Railway Station
9. Maravanthe
Photo: Aditya Bharighat / Unsplash
Maravanthe is a unique destination where the Arabian Sea and the Souparnika River run parallel to each other, separated by a narrow stretch of land. This creates a picturesque setting that is perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is one of the most serene places to visit in May in Karnataka. At Maravanthe, you can relax on the beach, enjoy a boat ride along the river, or simply take in the beautiful surroundings. The weather in May is ideal for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Location: Udupi District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Maravanthe Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kundapura Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sakleshpur
10. Agumbe
Photo: Ganesh Partheeban / Unsplash
Agumbe, often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India,” is known for its dense rainforests and stunning sunsets. It is one of the best places to visit in May in Karnataka for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Agumbe is famous for its beautiful sunset point, which offers breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Arabian Sea. You can also explore the nearby waterfalls, such as Barkana Falls and Onake Abbi Falls, and experience the rich flora and fauna of the Western Ghats.
Location: Shivamogga District, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Sunset Point
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udupi Railway Station
11. Dandeli
Dandeli, located on the western ghats of Karnataka is a charming place decked with towering mountains, lush green forests, nature reserves, and exotic wildlife. In addition to nature’s scenic beauty, Dandeli offers heart-pounding adventure activities. This adventure capital of South India offers opportunities for mountain biking, trekking, cycling, kayaking, canoeing, and more. You can also indulge in river rafting on the Kali River. One of the major attractions of Dandeli includes the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for wildlife lovers and avian enthusiasts. Here, you can also explore Kavla Caves, Ulavi Temple, Satholi Falls, and the famous Sykes Point.
Location: Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Alnavar Junction
Suggested Read: Discover Popular Places To Visit In Dandeli For A Scenic Retreat
12. Nandi Hills
With a symphony of breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling adventure, and religious significance, Nandi Hills is one of the most scenic places to visit in Karnataka in May. Situated at a height of 4,851 feet above sea level, these majestic hills offer astounding views of the surroundings. From seeking blessings at the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple and soaking in serenity at Tipu’s Drop to paragliding over the Nandi Hills and cycling through the trails, there is an array of exciting things to do in Nandi Hills. Here, you can also indulge in trekking through the rugged terrain and dense forests.
Location: Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Sunrise viewpoint
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chikkaballapur Railway Station
13. Mullayanagiri
Photo: Avinash Kumar singh / Wikimedia Commons
Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka is replete with lush green landscapes, mist-covered peaks, challenging trails, and more. One of the serene places in Karnataka to visit in May, the beauty of Mullayanagiri comes to life during this month. Mullayanagiri is an ideal destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The trekking routes here are quite challenging filled with steep trails and panoramic views. Adventure seekers can also indulge in mountain biking and road biking to sate their adrenaline. There is a temple of Lord Shiva on the hilltop which you can visit after the thrilling trek.
Location: Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Trekking to the peak
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Chikkamagaluru Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Nandi Hills
14. Kodachadri
Photo: Azam148 / Wikimedia Commons
Kodachadri, a trekking paradise, is one of the highest peaks and best places to visit in Karnataka in May. Bounty in nature, Kodachadri comes alive with lush greenery, and vibrant flora, and the trekking terrains reveal themselves during May. This place is also home to rich flora and exotic fauna. From trekkers to wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers, Kodachadri is an ideal destination for every type of traveller. Here, you can revel in the beauty of Hidlumane Falls, offer your prayers at Kollur Mookambika Temple, catch sights of various animals at Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, and more.
Location: Shivamogga district, Karnataka
Major Attraction: Kodachadri trek
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kollur Railway Station
15. Belagavi
Photo: Manjunath Doddamani Gajendragad / Wikimedia Commons
Home to ancient Jain and Hindu temples and historical forts, Belagavi, a major tourist attraction in Karnataka oozes old-world charm. From marvelling at the Belgaum Fort to seeking spiritual solace at Kapileshwar, there’s a lot to do here. You can also explore the Rajhansgad Yellur Fort, Military Mahadeva Temple, Kamal Basti, Fort Lake, Shri Ramakrishna Ashram, and more. In addition to vintage allure, Belagavi is abundant in nature. It is suffused with emerald-green hills, rolling meadows, and shimmering waterfalls. Belagavi is an ideal destination for someone seeking solitude from bustling city life or history aficionados in search of insightful experiences.
Location: Karnataka
Major Attraction: Belagavi Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Belagavi Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Belagavi Railway Station
Suggested Read: Enhance Your Karnataka Vacation With These Things To Do In Belagavi
Karnataka is a diverse state that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, these places to visit in May in Karnataka will provide a memorable experience. From the cool hills of Coorg and Chikmagalur to the historical wonders of Hampi and the serene beaches of Gokarna, Karnataka is a traveller’s paradise. Book a vacation with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Arif Khan / Unsplash
